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Tennessee football’s five priorities for bye week in 2022

By Caleb Calhoun

Sep 17, 2022; Knoxville, Tennessee, USA; Tennessee Volunteers head coach Josh Heupel talks with linebacker Jeremy Banks (33) during the first half against the Akron Zips at Neyland Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Bryan Lynn-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 17, 2022; Knoxville, Tennessee, USA; Tennessee Volunteers head coach Josh Heupel talks with linebacker Jeremy Banks (33) during the first half against the Akron Zips at Neyland Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Bryan Lynn-USA TODAY Sports /
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Sep 1, 2022; Knoxville, Tennessee, USA; Tennessee Volunteers wide receiver Jimmy Holiday (6) runs for a touchdown against the Ball State Cardinals during the second half at Neyland Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Randy Sartin-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 1, 2022; Knoxville, Tennessee, USA; Tennessee Volunteers wide receiver Jimmy Holiday (6) runs for a touchdown against the Ball State Cardinals during the second half at Neyland Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Randy Sartin-USA TODAY Sports /

2. Shoring up the return game

One of the fumbles Tennessee football suffered was by Trevon Flowers at Pitt, which set up their game-tying touchdown. Then the Vols failed to recover an onside kick against Florida, which almost allowed them to complete a 17-point comeback and win the game. Simply put, return game issues nearly cost them twice.

When it comes to the onside kick, that’s just basic fundamentals. However in general, they have been experimenting with kickoff and punt returns throughout the start of the season. There is no reason to do that anymore, as early signs suggest they have their answer for both.

Jimmy Holiday has been the primary kickoff returner, and he should remain in that role. Against Florida, he had returns of 34 and 27 yards, and he is now averaging just over 25 yards a return. Meanwhile, on punt returns, Squirrel White is the guy. He has returned just one punt this year, but it went for 23 yards, and he nearly broke it.

In addition to his fumble, Flowers has just seven total yards on three punt returns. It may be a small sample size, but White is more athletic and a dynamic weapon. He may not be ready to occupy the slot yet, but he can handle punt returns. With him and Holiday, the Vols should be set at these positions after the bye.

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